Shipment of biological material (human and animal origin)

To prevent the spread of (pathogenic) microorganisms, and to protect humans and the environment, there are strict procedures for sending and transporting various biological materials. The applicable procedures are described below. 

GMO/Biological material
The applicable rules for shipping genetically modified organisms (GMO) and biological material (by road and by air) are described in the work instruction Transport of GMOs and biological material. 

Animal by-products (ABP) that are used for scientific research or education must be handled, used, processed, or disposed of correctly. ABP is defined as dead animals or parts of animals, products of animal origin, or other products obtained from animals that are not intended or used for human consumption. Live animals and human material are not considered ABP. Researchers can contact the BSO with questions regarding ABP. 

Shipping/transport of animal by-products within the EU and the Netherlands
A completed trade document is required for shipping/transporting ABP within the European Union, including the Netherlands. The document must also contain a cat. 1 label. In this link, information about how to fill in the trade document can be found.

Animal by-products outside the EU
For the shipment of ABP outside the European Union (EU), a distinction must be made between sending and importing ABP. For sending ABP to non-EU countries, the applicable procedures of the receiving country must be followed.

An import exemption is required for importing ABP from non-EU countries. A copy of this import exemption can be requested from the BSO. Importing ABP is subject to strict conditions, which are described in the procedure Importing animal by-products from non-EU countries.

Note: The United Kingdom, Norway, and Switzerland are non-EU countries